Matera’s allure extends far beyond its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 2-hour guided night walking tour promises an immersive journey through the city’s captivating history and architecture. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes visitors through the historic center, Sasso Caveoso, and Sasso Barisano, offering exclusive access to a cave house and an ancient hypogeum. Discover how Matera’s resilient people transformed their once-impoverished abode into a testament to human ingenuity. But the true magic of this tour lies in the tales it unveils, inviting you to uncover the secrets that have shaped this remarkable city.
Key Points
- A 2-hour guided night walking tour in Matera’s historic center, Sasso Caveoso, and Sasso Barisano districts, providing an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and architecture.
- The tour includes entrance to a traditional cave dwelling and an ancient underground hypogeum, offering exclusive access to areas not typically open to the general public.
- Knowledgeable local guides provide insights into Matera’s fascinating past, including its history as an impoverished abode and the resilience and ingenuity of its people.
- The tour starts at 6:30 pm, with a maximum group size of 30 travelers, and concludes at a convenient location near public transportation.
- The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to change plans without penalty, ensuring a stress-free night walking experience in Matera.
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Tour Overview
This 2-hour guided night walking tour in Matera covers the historic center, Sasso Caveoso, and Sasso Barisano, offering an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and architecture.
Guests will have the opportunity to enter a cave house and an ancient hypogeum, which are multi-level underground structures, as part of the tour.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Matera’s fascinating past and the unique characteristics of its iconic sassi neighborhoods.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this tour promises to illuminate the hidden gems and captivating stories that make Matera a truly remarkable destination.
Meeting and End Points
The meeting point for the tour is located at Via San Biagio, 15, 75100 Matera, at the MIT Museum.
The tour will conclude at Piazzetta Pascoli, 75100 Matera. This makes it easy for travelers to find the starting point and then end the tour at a central location.
The meeting point is conveniently situated, with access to public transportation nearby. Participants don’t have to worry about getting lost or finding their way back after the tour.
The guide will lead the group from the meeting point through the historic center, Sasso Caveoso, and Sasso Barisano, before ending the tour at Piazzetta Pascoli, ensuring a seamless experience.
Included in the Tour
The tour includes entrance to a cave house and an ancient hypogeum on 4 levels, allowing visitors to explore the unique subterranean architecture of Matera. Plus, a knowledgeable tour guide accompanies the group throughout the experience.
The included highlights are:
- Entrance to a traditional cave dwelling, providing a glimpse into the historical living conditions of Matera’s residents
- Access to an ancient underground structure, the hypogeum, revealing the intricate network of tunnels and chambers beneath the city
- Expert guidance from a local tour guide, sharing insights and stories about the rich history and cultural significance of Matera
- An immersive experience, exploring the hidden gems and UNESCO-listed wonders of this unique Italian destination
- Exclusive access to areas not typically open to the general public, allowing for a truly unique and memorable tour.
Tour Details
Kickstarting the evening, the tour commences at 6:30 pm, ensuring guests have ample time to explore Matera’s historic center, Sasso Caveoso, and Sasso Barisano under the enchanting night sky.
The tour is limited to a maximum group size of 30 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are welcome.
The meeting point is at the MIT Museum on Via San Biagio, 15, and the tour concludes at Piazzetta Pascoli, 75100 Matera.
Conveniently, the tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can cancel their booking for the night walking tour in Matera free of charge up to 24 hours before the start of the experience. This flexible cancellation policy allows customers to change their plans without penalty, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
The tour provider understands that plans can change, and they want to accommodate their guests as best they can.
Some key benefits of this policy include:
- Peace of mind when booking
- Ability to adjust schedules if needed
- No financial penalties for late changes
- Confidence in the company’s customer-centric approach
- Flexibility to explore Matera on your own terms
This cancellation policy is a testament to the tour provider’s commitment to customer satisfaction and sets the stage for an enjoyable and stress-free night walking experience in the historic city of Matera.
Exploring Matera’s Historic Center
Amidst Matera’s captivating historic center, the night walking tour takes visitors on a spellbinding journey through the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, two iconic cave-dwelling districts that have witnessed the city’s remarkable evolution over centuries.
The guided tour explores the labyrinth of narrow alleys, stone staircases, and ancient cave dwellings that make Matera’s old town so unique.
Travelers will marvel at the intricate architecture, learn about the city’s history as a humble abode for the impoverished, and gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and ingenuity of the local people.
With an expert guide leading the way, the night walking tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visiting Sasso Caveoso
The night walking tour delves into the captivating Sasso Caveoso, one of Matera’s iconic cave-dwelling districts that reveal the city’s remarkable evolution over centuries.
Visitors will explore the network of interconnected cave dwellings, churches, and public spaces that have been carved into the soft limestone cliffs.
The guided tour offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the Sassi’s former inhabitants, who ingeniously adapted to their unique environment.
Highlights include:
- Discovering the ancient rock-cut architecture and subterranean cisterns
- Learning about the traditional troglodyte lifestyle and its sustainable practices
- Marveling at the intricate rock-hewn churches and their ornate decorations
- Understanding the historical significance of the Sasso Caveoso as a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Appreciating the breathtaking views over the ravine and the city skyline.
Exploring Sasso Barisano
Sasso Barisano, the other iconic cave-dwelling district in Matera, offers a captivating contrast to the Sasso Caveoso. Visitors can explore its labyrinth of narrow alleys, stairways, and cave dwellings that were once home to the city’s poorer residents. Unlike the more visually striking Sasso Caveoso, Sasso Barisano exudes a more humble, down-to-earth charm, with its weathered buildings and winding paths.
| Key Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Cave Dwellings | Intricate network of cave homes, churches, and workshops carved into the rock |
| Narrow Alleyways | Winding paths that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of past residents |
| Ancient Architecture | Blend of medieval and baroque elements in the buildings and structures |
The tour allows visitors to explore the history and character of this fascinating district, providing a deeper understanding of Matera’s unique heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children, as it involves walking at night and exploring historic cave dwellings. The tour is best suited for older children and adults who can handle the physical demands and evening schedule.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
No, the tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. The tour is focused on exploring the historic sites of Matera, and bringing outside items is not permitted. Refreshments are not included in the tour.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid disrupting the experience for others. It’s best to ask the tour guide about any specific restrictions or guidelines before taking photos.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, you can extend the tour duration. The tour operator may be able to accommodate a longer tour upon request, subject to availability and additional fees. It’s best to inquire about extending the tour when booking.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The tour provider does offer group discounts. Prices are reduced for groups of 10 or more. Customers should inquire about specific group rates when booking to take advantage of the savings.
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Recap
The 2-hour night walking tour in Matera offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and architecture.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides exclusive access to a cave house and an ancient hypogeum, allowing visitors to witness the resilience and ingenuity of the local people.
It’s a unique opportunity to explore Matera’s fascinating past, from its impoverished abode to its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
